Tributes paid to popular bookie Tony

Tony Lynch was an on course bookmaker with the family business, Cyril Lynch and Sons.

Mr Lynch first trained as an electrician, working underground at Glasshoughton Colliery, and played for Castleford Rugby Union before turning professional for Featherstone Rovers when he was 17.

He played with Featherstone legend Don Fox in the early 1960s.

After he scored twice on his debut against Bradford Northern, the match report said: “A beauty by Lynch, who straightened out in midfield, beat three men and raced 30 yards to score under the posts.”

After his Rugby League days Mr Lynch became a milkman with one of the biggest rounds in West Yorkshire.

His passion for sport saw him join his father Cyril as a bookie, working at The Grand National, York’s Ebor, Doncaster’s St Leger and at Pontefract’s biggest race meetings.

Mr Lynch celebrated his Golden Wedding with his wife Cath and the couple bought Newboulds Sports Shop.

Tony is survived by his wife, three children and nine grandchildren. Mrs Lynch said: “We had a long and very happy marriage. Tony did a lot in his 73 years but he was always the most happy and content when surrounded by his family and friends. He will leave a huge hole in all our lives.”

A funeral service will be held at St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in Castleford on Thursday, November 12, at 10.45am.

Donations can be made to St James’ Hospital Trust Leeds.